Pakistan to Transition Entirely to E-Passports: Machine-Readable Passports to Be Gradually Discontinued – Significant Enhancement in Security & Convenience

Pakistan announces full transition to e-passports with biometric chips

Islamabad, 20 June 2026 — In a landmark decision, the Pakistani government has announced the complete transition from machine-readable passports to advanced e-passports, aiming to enhance security, reduce fraud, and deliver a smoother international travel experience for millions of Pakistani citizens.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made the announcement after chairing a high-level meeting at the Passport and Immigration Headquarters, marking a significant modernisation of Pakistan’s travel document system.

Key Highlights of Pakistan’s E-Passport Transition

• Full phase-out of traditional machine-readable passports

• Nationwide rollout of e-passports with embedded biometric chips

• No specific cutoff date announced yet, but the shift has been approved in principle

• E-passports will comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards

What is an E-Passport?

An e-passport is a secure biometric travel document containing an electronic chip embedded in one of its pages. The contactless NFC chip stores:

• Biometric data (facial recognition)

• Personal biographical information

• Unique identification number

• Digital signature for verification

This technology enables faster processing at automated e-gates at airports worldwide, reducing long immigration queues and minimising the risk of forgery.

Additional Major Reforms Announced

Alongside the e-passport transition, the government has introduced several other improvements:

• Cashless Payment System: All passport offices will switch to fully cashless transactions starting 1 July 2026, eliminating manual cash handling.

• Home Delivery of Passports: Initial preparations completed — door-step delivery for both domestic and overseas applicants will begin soon.

• Pak ID Platform: Enhanced online system for passport applications to streamline submissions and significantly cut processing times.

• Business Passport Policy: To be finalised soon in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue.

Director General of Passports and Immigration Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed the minister on the ongoing reforms during the meeting.

Why Pakistan Is Moving to E-Passports Now

The shift aims to:

• Eliminate fraud and forgery associated with older passport types

• Bring Pakistan in line with global aviation and security standards

• Improve the overall travel experience for Pakistani nationals

• Strengthen border security and international credibility

Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasised:

“Switching entirely to e-passports will eliminate passport-related fraud and forgery.”

Benefits for Pakistani Passport Holders

• Faster immigration clearance at major international airports via e-gates

• Higher level of document security and protection against identity theft

• Better global acceptance and smoother travel to visa-required countries

• Long-term digital modernisation of the passport system

Practical Advice for Pakistani Citizens

1. Continue Using Current Passports — Existing valid machine-readable passports will remain usable until further notice.

2. Plan Renewal Strategically — Consider applying for the new e-passport when your current one is nearing expiry to benefit from the upgraded features.

3. Use Online Services — Take advantage of the Pak ID platform for faster processing once fully rolled out.

4. Prepare Documents — Ensure you have all required biometric and supporting documents ready for the new system.

5. Stay Updated — Keep an eye on official announcements from the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGIP) to know the precise transition timeline.

   
   

For the latest Pakistan passport updates, e-passport rollout news, visa policy changes, and 2026 immigration developments, visit: visasupdate.com/news